Rise of the Blood Masters: DRAGON STONE SAGA, #5

By Kristian Alva

Rise of the Blood Masters is the fifth book in Kristian Alva's bestselling Dragon Stone Saga.

 

After five years of fragile peace, things are changing rapidly. The dwarf kingdom is crumbling into civil war in the midst of the worst clan schism in a thousand years. With the clans weakened by infighting, the entire dwarf kingdom is vulnerable to attack.

 

Tallin Arai, the dragon rider, must leave the desert and the city he loves when someone puts a bounty on his head. He suspects the Balborites—a fanatic cult that trains deadly mageborn assassins. He sets out on a journey to save the dwarves from civil war and stop the Balborite assassins once and for all.

Is Tallin strong enough to save them all?

• Language: English
• Publisher: BYZINE LICENSING
• Release date: Sep 30, 2014
• ISBN: 9781937361594

Kristian Alva

Kristian Alva is a bestselling fantasy author. Her books have reached #1 in Juvenile Fantasy on Amazon UK and Amazon Australia. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading all genres, especially epic fantasy. She lives in Nevada with her family.

Book preview

Other Books By Kristian Alva

Dragon Stone Saga

BOOK 1: DRAGON STONES

Book 2: The Return of the Dragon Riders

Book 3: Vosper’s Revenge

Book 4: The Balborite Curse

Book 5: Rise of the Blood Masters

Book 6: Kathir’s Redemption

Book 7: The Shadow Grid Returns

Book 8: The Fall of Miklagard

Book 9: Sisren’s Betrayal

Stand-Alone Novellas

BRINSOP’S BROOD

Mugla’s Magic

Nydeired

Collections

DRAGON STONE TRILOGY (Books 1-3)

Chronicles of Tallin (Books 4-6)

The Shadow Grid Trilogy (Books 7-9)

Dedication

DEDICATED TO MY CHILDREN, the sweetest little dragons of all.

Map

1. The Return to the Elder Willow

BACK AND FORTH, BACK and forth. How many times had he made this journey in the last few months? Tallin stopped counting after five. This time, he was returning to the dragon nest with his aunt Mugla in tow. She had asked to come along, and he didn’t have the heart to refuse her, just like before.

Up to this point, Tallin had been dividing his time between the Highport Caverns and the Elder Willow. The dwarves at Highport needed his help. So many people were sick, malnourished, or had some severe illness. His aunt Mugla couldn’t keep up with the demand for her powers. But he also had other responsibilities he couldn’t ignore—namely, the protection of Shesha’s nest, the first nest of dragon’s eggs that anyone had discovered in a long time.

The responsibilities weighed heavily on his time and spirit. He was stuck with the reality that he couldn’t be two places at once.

Tallin and Mugla kept their conversation light as they returned to the Elder Willow. They talked about the weather and other trivial things. Every time the conversation turned serious, Tallin would find a way to change the subject. He was preoccupied throughout the trip and never regained a peaceful state of mind.

Whenever Tallin and Duskeye stopped to hunt along the way, Mugla was left alone in the forest. At first, she was overcome with feelings of isolation, but eventually, she grew used to the solitude. She’d been living among the dwarves for so long that she was used to having almost no privacy. Compared to the claustrophobic, cramped quarters of the Highport Caverns, the emptiness of the forest seemed vast indeed.

When the weather was clear, they slept under the stars beside a small campfire. Unfortunately, their journey was punctuated by bursts of freezing rain, and Mugla often spent the night shivering with cold. When it rained, they slept under a tree, or if they were lucky, in a cave. Still, despite their uncomfortable sleeping arrangements, Mugla never complained.

She wasn’t about to make a fuss over it, especially since she had invited herself along on this trip. Tallin hadn’t been pleased about that, but he eventually agreed.

She had insisted on coming, partly to make sure that Tallin arrived safely, but also to discover more about his connection to Skera-Kina, the Balborite assassin who had repeatedly tried to kill him and attacked them outside the dwarf caverns.

They sat by the fire together in the evenings, occasionally talking about the assassin. She was ruthless; something out of a nightmare.

It usually soured the mood, so Mugla stopped bringing it up altogether. Sometimes they discussed happier subjects, like the dragon’s nest. This always put Tallin and Duskeye in good spirits. Mugla’s voice broke into his thoughts.

So how do ye think the eggs are doing? Mugla asked.

Tallin answered with a smile. He loved discussing the impending birth of the hatchlings. It was just the sort of distraction he needed. I’m sure everything is fine, but I worry every minute. Then, absently, I wonder if any of the eggs have hatched yet.

"That’s unlikely, piped Duskeye. It’s still too early. Once we reach the Elder Willow, we will monitor the nest together until the hatchlings appear. Shesha is waiting for our return."

Tallin smiled and crossed his arms behind his head. The dragon’s eggs had consumed his imagination since he saw them for the first time. Of course, the nest was more than a pleasant distraction. It was the first key to the future of the dragon race. In the years leading up to the last war, the dragons were almost exterminated by the evil emperor Vosper. The dragons fled to the desert to hide. The emperor was eventually defeated, but very few dragons survived the war, and there had been little hope for their survival since.

Only a handful of nesting females remained, and the chance that any of them would successfully spawn a clutch of eggs was low. Yet, somehow, Shesha and Duskeye had mated and produced a healthy nest. Shesha’s sudden fertility had shocked everyone.

Finally, hope for the dragon race existed! It wasn’t just good news for the dragons and their riders; it was good news for the whole world.

How much longer before they hatch? asked Mugla. She didn’t know much about dragons, for there were no dragons in the dwarf kingdom. Tallin was a dwarf halfling. He was the only dragon rider on the continent with dwarf blood.

It varies a lot, but it usually takes several months, Tallin replied. Sometimes it takes much longer if the weather is cold.

Why, a few months is nothing, she replied. They’ll be hatched soon.

He shook his head. Not soon enough for me. I won’t rest easy until they hatch. But as long as the nest is safe, then that’s really all that matters. Tallin leaned back, and his face darkened. Do you think Skera-Kina will come searching for us at the Elder Willow? We can’t risk her finding the nest.

No, I don’t think there’s any chance of that, she responded. It’s probably just a coincidence that she showed up at Highport while you were there. And she doesn’t know where we’re going now anyway. She rubbed the back of his hand.

He forced a smile. You’re probably right.

It’ll be okay. Don’t worry so much. Mugla cleared her throat and looked away. She felt like she was lying to him, but she didn’t know what else to say. After that, the conversation died, and for once Mugla didn’t try to revive it. She decided not to bring up the subject of Skera-Kina again.

Mugla nodded off to sleep. The next morning, they continued their journey toward the Elder Willow. The days passed by, and eventually, they were near their destination. Now that they were closer, Duskeye flapped his wings and flew faster.

Around midday, Tallin said. I can see the top of the Elder Willow in the distance. We’ll arrive before nightfall.

Mugla smiled. Good. It’ll be nice to see Chua again and to get a good rest for the night. There’s somethin’ about that place that revitalizes my soul. I love the scenery and trees. It’s such a calm place. Being there helps me think more clearly.

She squinted, looking through the trees. She could see a fire blazing in the meadow below. There was a small man covered with a blanket at the edge of the firelight. Look, I see a cookfire.

Tallin sniffed the air eagerly. Did Chua make stew? Or am I so hungry I’m imagining things?

No, ye’re right. He’s definitely cooking something good.

The aroma of stewed vegetables and spicy herbs filled the air, making their stomachs growl. As they flew closer, they saw Chua carefully stirring an iron pot that was suspended from a hook over a low fire. Mugla smiled. I would enjoy something hot to eat after all these cold nights.

Duskeye flapped his wings, and they descended toward the sacred grove where Chua made his home. After one final flap, Duskeye landed right near the Elder Willow, underneath the tree’s hanging branches. Paper lanterns swung from vines that coiled up the tree’s enormous trunk. With Tallin’s help, Mugla hopped from Duskeye’s saddle.

She stretched her back, as it was stiff from riding. Then, she hobbled toward Chua, pausing next to a small wooden table with a bunch of wildflowers on it. She plucked a single flower from the bunch, smelled it, and placed it back down. Sunflowers are so beautiful, aren’t they?

Chua! she called out. Did you set all this up yourself? What a nice thing to do! She planted a friendly kiss on the spellcaster’s scarred cheek. Thanks for making such a nice effort for us.

Starclaw, Chua’s companion, rested close by. Hello, Starclaw, Mugla said, patting the green dragon’s nose. Starclaw purred and licked her hand.

On the other side of the fire, Chua propped himself up on a mound of pillows. He raised his chin to greet them, saying, Welcome, welcome. We’ve been expecting you. I’m glad you’re both here. You’re right in time for supper. I made the stew, but I can’t take credit for the rest. Starclaw hung the lanterns and set up the table of flowers. She’s a great helper, you know.

The lanterns were for Tallin and Mugla. Chua and Starclaw were both blind, but they still managed to live a fairly normal life and provide for their guests. 

I can’t wait to try that stew. Tallin licked his lips. It smells heavenly. Steam rose from the pot as the liquid within bubbled vigorously; it was filled to the brim with thick broth and vegetables.

Mugla nodded and motioned toward the table. Why don’t ye just sit down, dear? I’ll spoon up a bowl and bring it to ye.

Mugla served each of them, pouring the thick mixture into bowls which were then handed out to everyone. Chua stayed on the ground near Starclaw to eat his meal.

Tallin inhaled deeply, took one spoonful, and smiled. The heat scorched his throat, but that didn’t stop him from gulping it down. Tallin gobbled up his first bowl and quickly rose up for seconds, which he went to ladle himself. This tastes great, Chua.

Chua chuckled and lifted his bowl into the air in a type of salute. I’m glad you enjoy it. The recipe is simple, just lots of fresh vegetables from my garden. I know you both must be hungry after such a long journey. I don’t get many guests in the fall, so it’s nice to cook for someone else besides myself for a change.

How do you do it... in your condition? asked Tallin delicately, referring to Chua’s disabilities.

Chua smiled. Oh, it’s not really that hard. Starclaw helps me with everything. One learns to take care of oneself, I suppose. Despite the blindfold over his damaged eyes, Chua looked like he was staring into the fire.

After a brief pause, he continued, Life is filled with difficulties, but also with joyful experiences. This life is one that I am best suited to, I think. I’ve enjoyed my life, though it’s come with many sorrows. He leaned back and patted Starclaw’s side. At the end of the day, I wouldn’t trade what I’ve learned for anything.

Mugla gave him a curious look. "Why so serious all of a sudden? Yer life’s not over yet, old friend! Ye’ve got many good years ahead of ye. And who knows? Maybe ye’ll even outlive me!"

Chuckling softly, Chua said, Yes... perhaps.

Mugla finished her meal and cleaned her bowl in a bucket of water by the fire. Stretched beside her, Duskeye was already snoring. So how have ye been? What’s happened since the last time we were here?

Chua reached out and picked up a slender pipe from his robe before responding, Nothing much. It’s been quiet. I sent Marron and Pinda to Ironport a few days ago, on a hired barge. They helped me around here for a while, but they’re now under the protection of the Shadow Grid. I’ve had a few visitors come by for readings, but it’s been quiet for the most part. Our days have been peaceful.

He stuffed the pipe with smokeleaf and lit it with a whispered spell. He took a puff and let out a ring of smoke.

So, what do ye have planned for tomorrow? she asked.

Tallin spoke up. We’re going back to the nest. Duskeye and I have returned to guard the dragon eggs. I don’t plan to leave this area again until after they’ve hatched.

Ah, yes, Chua said, taking another long draw from the pipe, the nest. How is Shesha’s brood doing?

Tallin shrugged. Still waiting for them to hatch, but... there are no worries. Not yet, anyway.

I’m glad you’re here to keep the nest safe, Chua said with some seriousness. I’ve heard some rumors thrown about lately. Rumors about the orcs.

What kind of rumors? asked Tallin.

Chua shrugged. I hear whispers about things. Stories from the occasional traveler. Slaver prattle, mostly. There’s some talk that the orcs are going to attack Mount Velik. The greenskins have been acting aggressively outside their territory for months now. There’s talk of new hostilities with them. Their numbers have increased, and they’re united under a crafty young leader, King Nar.

Mugla flipped her shawl over her shoulders. Filthy greenskins.

I’ve tried to see the future regarding this, but it’s still too hazy. Chua sat up, tapping his pipe on his palm to dislodge some wet smokeleaf from the bowl. Hopefully, the orcs will decide to stay in Mount Heldeofol where they belong. He motioned to a stack of blankets nearby. I have some warm blankets and pillows for you both. You’re both welcome to stay as long as you like. The remains of the fire will keep you warm.

Mugla stood and went over to the folded blankets and pillows. She handed a blanket and a pillow to Tallin before taking one of each for herself. Snuggling onto the rugs next to the fire, she watched Chua curl up next to Starclaw.

It’s getting late, said Tallin, and I’m tired. He was already half asleep.

Mugla yawned. The night was warm, and her eyelids started to droop, too. I’ve had enough chatter for tonight. Let’s try to get some rest.

After a few moments, she turned around to look at her nephew. Tallin was already asleep and snoring softly. She spoke to Chua in a low whisper. Can ye make some time for me tomorrow? I was hoping to get a private reading. If it’s not too much trouble.

No trouble, Chua replied quietly. I would be happy to. Starclaw carries me into the forest to meditate at dawn. Look for me by the creek, near the black oaks that grow along the water.

She nodded. Thank ye... I appreciate it. Soft warmth seeped into her tired muscles, and she fell asleep a few minutes later.

Chua didn’t say anything. He only nodded and snuffed out his pipe. So it’s begun, he murmured quietly and then drifted off to sleep.

2. A Painful Past

AREN’T YE GOING TO eat breakfast first? Mugla asked the following morning. Ye look so thin. She pinched Tallin’s forearm. I’m worried ye’re not eating properly."

Tallin laughed her off. You saw me eat three bowls of stew yesterday! Anyway, I’m never very hungry in the morning.

Be careful out there, she warned. Keep yer guard up. And watch the weather. The skies are clear now, but there are dark clouds in the distance. It’s bound to rain soon, and ye’d best not be caught in a storm.

A little rain never hurt anyone, he replied lightheartedly, but his aunt didn’t appreciate the humor in his voice.

Mugla frowned. Don’t be so glib with me, young man, she scolded. I’m not so old and feeble that I can’t tan yer backside. This is serious.

Tallin